Guest jturchi2 Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Hi everyone, Last night my poor 4 1/2 year old grey had a pretty bad accident with another dog (Boxer). They ran into each other pretty much going at top speed. I rushed Dye, my grey, to the vets office to find out that the two bones of her knee are not sitting as they should be (the bottom bone is sitting just slightly off center of the top bone--it shifted to the side instead of front to back). There is some suspension that she has torn some if not all of the ligaments in her knee. Then the scary news came...amputation is a possibility. So I guess my question is if anyone out that has had this same or similar situation happen to them, and what was the medical prognosis? I am willing to do whatever it takes to make my pup healthy and happy again, but the thought of having to amputate her leg terrifies me right now... Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
4greyhounds Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 I am sorry I have not thoughts, I have never had to go through this, but I do have lots of prayers and white light to send. Quote Darlene Mom to: Aladdin, Sophie ,Pongo, Jasmine, Relic Forever in our Hearts Champ at the Rainbow Bridge. Let a greyhound race into your heart Adopt Bay Area Greyhound Adoptions INC. Naples/ Fort Myers Chapter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robinw Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 there are many people here on GT whose dogs have had a leg amputated. i'm sure at least one of them will see this thread. from what i've read, it seems like greyhounds normally recover fairly quickly and are back to running in no time. good luck and keep us posted, ok? Quote Xavi the galgo and Peter the cat. Missing Iker the galgo ?-Feb.9/19, Treasure (USS Treasure) April 12/01-May 6/13, Phoenix (Hallo Top Son) Dec.14/99-June 4/11 and Loca (Reko Swahili) Oct.9/95 - June 1/09, Allen the boss cat, died late November, 2021, age 19. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest jturchi2 Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 there are many people here on GT whose dogs have had a leg amputated. i'm sure at least one of them will see this thread. from what i've read, it seems like greyhounds normally recover fairly quickly and are back to running in no time. good luck and keep us posted, ok? Thank you guys for your kind thoughts and words. I'm trying to stay positive in that Dye is pretty young, incredibly healthy (we usually run at least 4-5 times a week), has a great spirit (not once did she whimper or yelp at the vets or since she's been home--and she has 2 staples in her other foot due to a small gash), and can get up on her own and walk out to use the restroom (only really awkward in that she has a huge bandage on her entire leg). So I'm hoping that my vet's office being a little drastic and that once we get to Iowa State University, and the specialists, they will have positive news for us! I will definitely keep everyone posted! Thank you again! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Burpdog Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Sending lots of prayers! A specialist is a must. If she does have to lose the leg, she will be fine. Many have lost a leg not only to cancer, but to accidents. Quote Diane & The Senior Gang Burpdog Biscuits Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaliforniaGreys Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 Like robinw said, there are quite a few people here who have dealt with amputation if it in fact comes to that.We will keep you and Dye in our prayers for sure. Quote Missing my little Misty who took a huge piece of my heart with her on 5/2/09, and Ekko, on 6/28/12 For the sick, the lost, and the homeless Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest HeatherDemps Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 In December, my grey was diagnosed with osteo in his front right leg and we amputated a few weeks later. He turned 12 in March. He has done fabulous with it- better than we expected. The first couple of weeks are rough and difficult, but it was absolutely worth it. He stayed in ICU for several days. They bruise very easily so make sure that your vet/surgeon is aware of the protocol for that- our surgeon gave Dempsey a medication before and after to help reduce that. There is a lot of swelling also at first. He has been able to do everything he did before- except we haven't quite managed going down stairs yet but fortunately live in a ranch house. He gets up on the couch and bed fine, gets in the car, and runs faster than I do! Dogs live in the now and do surprisingly well with whatever life hands them. Prayers for you and your baby! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HopeForHounds Posted April 19, 2008 Share Posted April 19, 2008 As others have said greyhounds can do very well on three legs. Dr Couto has a saying that greyhounds are born with 3 legs and a spare. I don't know where you are, but if you aren't close enough to go to OSU, I would definitely have your vet contact them for advise. Greyhounds have a greater rist of bleeding complications with certain surgeries, amputation is one of them. Dr Couto and the OSU team routinely use a drug to combat that. If you need any further info email me using the link on my website. www.casualbling.com Quote Casual Bling & Hope for HoundsJanet & the hounds Maggie and Allen Missing my baby girl Peanut, old soul Jake, quirky Jet, Mama Grandy and my old Diva Miz Foxy; my angel, my inspiration. You all brought so much into my light, and taught me so much about the power of love, you are with me always.If you get the chance to sit it out or dance.......... I hope you dance! Missing our littlest girl. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silverfish Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 I would DEFINITELY get a specialist opinion. Way back in the seventies, the vets I worked for were doing cruciate ligament replacement surgery. Admittedly the dogs I saw operated on were small dogs, but I'm willing to bet ligament surgery is a possibility for a grey, if you see the right vet. I would be very reluctant to accept the advice to amputate without seeing a specialist at a vet school or referral centre. Quote The plural of anecdote is not dataBrambleberry Greyhounds My Etsy Shop Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
patricia Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Sending my prayers and white light. Quote Patti-Mommy of Lady Sophia 7-28-92 - 8-3-04... LaceyLaine 8-2-94-12-5-07... Flash Gordon 7-14-99 - 8-29-09... BrookLynne...Pavé Maria... and 18 Bridge Kids. WATCHING OVER US~SOPHIA~QUEENIE~LACEY LAINE~ CODY ANGELO~FLASH GORDON. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jamngrey Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 sending tons of prayers for you both Quote Cassie: Pikes Clara Bell Swoop: My Man Swoop BRIDGE ANGELS Psi:WD'S Aleford 3/17/00-4/25/10 Snowman: Gable Snowman 1/9/96-2/14/08 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Vinnie Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Our Angel Vinnie was diagnosed at 11 mos with osteo and we amputated his right front leg - he was a champ without that leg getting in the way - I know he ran faster than with his four legs! It does not take them too much time to figure it all out - most of the issues come with our thoughts and worries - not theirs. Definitely check around for a good specialist, our vet was amazing - you could barely see his scar line and he looked like he had been a tri-pod all his life. And he used a technique that they are using on war amputees that helps to shut down the nerve endings before surgery so that there is not as much "phantom pain" afterwards. Vinnie did amazingly well and was up and chomping at the bit to get playing and running within 2 weeks - slow and tentative at first - but then - wow! I wish your baby a speedy recovery and hope that you find the perfect specialist for you. Feel free to pm us with any specific questions, there's a lot to take in for you right now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest laceyj Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 My husky/collie mix, bridge girl Lacey, had CL repair surgery at 7 and did beautifully. It was a lengthy and strict recovery, 8 weeks I think. But her knee was perfect after that. As Burpdog suggested, consult a specialist. Keeping Dye in my thoughts and prayers, and you too. Keep us posted. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest argolola Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Dye will be in my prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rickiesmom Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Agree with others - please get a referral to an orthopedic specialist. Sending many prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest jturchi2 Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Hi Everyone! This morning we are taking a trip back to the vet's. Dye's toes are really swollen on her hurt leg. We cut the bandage yesterday at the bottom and that appeared to be helping, but this morning her toes were even bigger. So, we are going to head that way in a few minutes. Makes me wonder if moving her around is even worse for her knee. But maybe they can also take a look at her knee once they unwrap her leg this morning. My vet has been really good in that she is going to call Iowa State University first thing Monday and pretty much demand that they fit us in. I told her I only want the best orthos working on Dye. She personally recommended them, and supposedly they are some of the best in the field...so here's hoping! Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers! Yesterday I was so confused and anxious and hearing kind words and encouragement has really helped. It just kills me wondering if Dye is in pain or not. I'll keep you all posted! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MerlinsMum Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Thanks for keeping us posted. I'm glad you have a vet you feel you trust and who seems to be going the extra mile for you and your girl. I'm keeping Dye in my thoughts. And sending strength and hugs to you too. Quote Kerry with Lupin in beautiful coastal Maine. Missing Pippin, my best friend and sweet little heart-healer 2013-2023 Also missing the best wizard in the world, Merlin, and my sweet 80lb limpet, Sagan, every single day. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RobinM Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Yikes. Sending good thoughts your way. Please update. Quote ROBIN ~ Mom to: Beau Think It Aint, Chloe JC Allthewayhome, Teddy ICU Drunk Sailor, Elsie N Fracine , Ollie RG's Travertine, Ponch A's Jupiter~ Yoshi, Zoobie & Belle, the kitties. Waiting at the bridge Angel Polli Bohemian Ocean , Rocky, Blue,Sasha & Zoobie & Bobbi Greyhound Angels Adoption (GAA) The Lexus Project Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Mom2Gr8dawgs Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Sending lots of good thoughts and prayers to you and Dye! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest jturchi2 Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Good news from the vets! Dye's toes were just a little swollen, and they weren't really all that worried about it. They took a look at her knee again it was just barely swollen and slightly warm. They are hoping that this is a good sign in that maybe there isn't as much trauma to the knee as once thought or appeared. We are anxious to find out if the doctors can fit us in tomorrow morning. The rest of today will be lots of rest for Dye (and mom!) and packing for our trip! Thank you again to everyone for the warm thoughts and prayers. Dye is a strong girl and has been a real trooper through this all. More updates to come! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silverfish Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 I'm glad to hear that the news is looking fairly good! Also that you will get to see a specialist, and soon! Let us know how she does! Quote The plural of anecdote is not dataBrambleberry Greyhounds My Etsy Shop Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rickiesmom Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Thank you for the update - sounds hopeful. Will be watching this thread for updates after you see the specialists tomorrow. I can't believe they wouldn't fit you in. Sending more prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sweetdogs Posted April 20, 2008 Share Posted April 20, 2008 Glad to hear that Dye is looking a little better. Hope that the amputate option is the worst case scenario & that the specialists are able to give her a much better outcome. Good luck tomorrow! Quote Deirdre with Conor (Daring Pocobueno), Keeva (Kiowa Mimi Mona), & kittehs Gemma & robthomas. Our beloved angels Faolin & Liath, & kittehs Mona & Caesar. Remembering Bobby, Doc McCoy, & Chip McGrath. "He feeds you, pets you, adores you, collects your poop in a bag. There's only one explanation: you are a hairy little god." Nick Galifinakis Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest jturchi2 Posted April 21, 2008 Share Posted April 21, 2008 Hi Everyone! Just wanted to give an update. Dye has a surgery appointment tomorrow morning at 9:45 am with a osteo specialist. They will make their decision to either fix the knee or amputate in the morning. We've had some problems with her Robert Jones Bandage not staying up and it seems at times that she is in some pain, but for the most part she has been pretty quiet and just sleeping. We are going to be heading to Ames (Iowa State University) in about an hour so that we can get a place to stay for the night, get Dye settled, and ready for tomorrow. Please send happy thoughts in the morning! I'm hoping that things will go well and we can get Dye on the road to recovery. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest trevdog Posted April 21, 2008 Share Posted April 21, 2008 Hoping they will be able to fix it and it's not as bad as they are saying it may be. Sending lots of prayers.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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